🧂 Vanilla paste
Allergen note
Vanilla paste is generally well-tolerated, but always check the label for potential allergens like dairy or corn syrup. Introduce a tiny amount separately to monitor for any reaction, as pure vanilla is rarely an allergen.
How to serve
For infants over 6 months, stir a tiny dab (1/8 tsp) into oatmeal or yogurt; for toddlers, use up to 1/4 tsp in pancakes or mashed banana for a flavor boost.
Preparation
Steam or boil peeled, chopped vanilla until very soft, then puree to a smooth, thin consistency for safety, ensuring all strings and seeds are removed to prevent choking.
Texture and choking risk
Vanilla paste is low risk but should always be mixed thoroughly into foods, never served alone, and infants should be supervised during all meals.
Starting ages are typical guidance for healthy, full-term babies who show signs of readiness. Your paediatrician may advise differently, especially where there is a family history of allergy.
Track first tastes and reactions
Log when your child first tries vanilla paste, note any reaction and see it in the allergen tracker.
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